Hawaii House Bill HB2117

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/24
• Refer: 1/24/24

Caption

Relating To Federal Lands.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will have considerable implications for state law regarding land management and the involvement of local stakeholders in decisions that affect their communities. By transferring the management of lands held by the United States Army, the bill aims to support native Hawaiians' rights to their ancestral lands and facilitate the establishment of a trust over these lands for public benefit. This is anticipated to foster both environmental and cultural rejuvenation in the area.

Summary

House Bill 2117 seeks to establish a task force within the Department of Land and Natural Resources dedicated to transitioning the management of the Makua military reservation from the United States Army to the State of Hawaii upon the expiration of the federal lease. This transition is crucial as it facilitates the handover of the land which has significant cultural importance to native Hawaiian communities. The task force is tasked with planning this transfer, ensuring that cleanup and cultural access opportunities are properly addressed.

Contention

While the bill is ostensibly aimed at improving native Hawaiian access and management of the land, it may face contention regarding the responsibilities of members of the task force and the extent of military collaboration in the process. Critics may argue that the bill should ensure comprehensive involvement from various community representatives and establish clear accountability measures to prevent any potential neglect in land management or cultural oversight. Overall, the bill emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to land handover while addressing historical grievances linked to military presence in Hawaii.